Baldwin transfers Wolf Creek property to Foley

BAY MINETTE, Alabama -- Baldwin County commissioners voted unanimously this week to hand over property along Wolf Creek to Foley as part of a plan to develop the land as a public park.

Foley Environmental Manager Leslie Lassiter told commissioners that the city would be investing nearly $190,000 in the project off Wilson Road over 3 years with grant funding adding another $350,000.

Phase 1 of development includes a kayak/canoe launch along the creek with construction beginning in October. That phase should be completed in 2013 with a picnic area, small pavilion and access road part of the development. The next year, the city will build a raised boardwalk through wetland areas, fishing piers to accommodate families with small children as well as signage in wilderness areas. Phase 3 will include a comfort station, more signage, short trails and roadway improvements, Lassiter said.

Lassiter described education programs already in use at other Foley ecological park areas, saying the Wolf Creek area would be open for field trips to all county schools free of charge.

"It’s all about engaging students in nature," Lassiter said.

Commissioners praised Lassiter’s efforts to preserve the area’s environment and thanked her for Foley’s efforts.

Commissioner Tucker Dorsey said the park will complement county efforts to provide public access to waterways, and would fit nicely with a push under way to get the boat launch at the old Wolf Bay Lodge under county control.

"I’m certainly very supportive of what you are doing," Dorsey said, adding that the plans are "terrific" for the property that would not have made a good site for a public boat launch.

Commissioner Frank Burt thanked Lassiter and Foley for the commitment to the park. Commissioner Charles Gruber said the development will be a great asset to the county, and credited the late Stan Mahoney for making the county aware of the land when it was offered for sale.

Commission Chairman Bob James said transferring the property to Foley created a "win-win situation."

Lassiter said she would continue to make annual reports to the county on progress at the park.